The successful candidate will provide leadership for the Company’s engineering, maintenance, asset reliability and utilities functions, with responsibility for mechanical and electrical maintenance, boiler and steam systems, gas engines, standby generators, plant utilities, asset integrity and maintenance planning, while also providing engineering support to the ZLD and CO₂ plants and capital projects to ensure safe, reliable and efficient operations.
Job Summary
- Employer: PressCane Limited
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-10-09
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Utilities and Maintenance Planning functions
- Drive preventive, predictive and condition-based maintenance to improve plant reliability
- Ensure safe, reliable and efficient operation of boilers, steam systems and plant utilities
- Manage reliability of power generation and distribution: grid, gas engines and generators
- Lead asset integrity, critical-spares management and root-cause failure analysis
- Provide engineering support to ZLD, CO₂ and Syrup Mill strategic projects
- Manage engineering budgets, CAPEX, contractors and statutory compliance
- Build a strong culture of sustainability, safety, reliability and continuous improvement
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics or Industrial Engineering; professional registration/eligibility required
- Strong engineering and maintenance leadership experience in a manufacturing environment
- Proven expertise in boilers, steam systems, power generation and plant utilities
- Demonstrated capability in asset reliability, preventive maintenance and root cause analysis
- Experience with SAP-PM or any CMMS and capital-project commissioning
How to Apply
Apply by email: careers@pressethanolmw.com
About the Company
PressCane Limited is an ethanol distillery company based in Chikhwawa, Malawi. The firm operates as a subsidiary of a larger agribusiness group and runs a distillation plant in the Shire Valley region. Its primary activity is the production of ethanol for industrial and fuel‑blending purposes. The facility provides employment opportunities for residents of Chikhwawa and surrounding districts. PressCane Limited’s operations support Malawi’s efforts to diversify its energy sources.
Ethanol production powering Malawi's growth
Website: https://presscane.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Engineering Services Manager role in Malawi?
Most employers require a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering from a recognized institution like the University of Malawi or Mzuzu University. Professional registration with the Engineering Institution of Malawi (EIM) is usually essential, along with 5-10 years of relevant experience in manufacturing or industrial settings.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Engineering Services Manager in Malawi's manufacturing sector?
Daily duties include overseeing plant maintenance schedules, managing technical teams, ensuring machinery uptime, coordinating with production departments, and enforcing safety standards. You will also handle budget preparation for engineering projects and liaise with suppliers for spare parts and equipment.
How does workplace culture and management style typically function in Malawian engineering companies?
Hierarchical respect is important, with decisions often flowing from senior management, though modern companies increasingly value collaborative problem-solving. Punctuality and relationship-building are valued, and understanding local communication styles—indirect feedback and patience with processes—helps integration.
What career progression opportunities exist for Engineering Services Managers in Malawi?
Progression typically moves to Plant Manager, Operations Director, or Technical Director roles within manufacturing firms. Some professionals transition into consultancy or establish their own engineering services businesses, especially with EIM registration and strong industry networks.
What benefits are commonly offered to senior engineering managers in Malawi?
Standard packages usually include medical aid coverage, pension contributions through NBS Bank or similar providers, annual leave of 18-24 days, and sometimes housing or transport allowances. Larger manufacturing firms may also offer performance bonuses and professional development support.
How should I apply for an Engineering Services Manager position in Malawi, and what do employers prioritize?
Apply through company websites, LinkedIn, or local job portals like MyJobo Malawi, ensuring your CV highlights EIM registration and measurable achievements. Employers prioritize hands-on technical experience, team leadership evidence, and familiarity with agricultural processing or relevant industry equipment.